Can Vinyl Panels Be Laid Over Tiles?
The question of whether vinyl panels can be laid over tiles is one of the most common reasons for choosing them. And the answer is – absolutely yes. For many people, it’s the only way to refresh the look of their kitchen without undergoing a major renovation. So if you dream of changing your kitchen design without significant financial costs or time investment, vinyl panels are definitely worth considering.
Vinyl panels can be installed over existing ceramic tiles, as well as on a prepared and level concrete subfloor, including with hydronic underfloor heating. What matters most is that the subfloor is properly prepared.
Installing Vinyl Panels Over Tiles – What to Keep in Mind
The surface where the vinyl panels will be installed must be level, clean, dry, and most importantly, stable. If the old ceramic tiles have chips, cracks, or uneven grout joints (wider than 3 mm and deeper than 1 mm), these need to be leveled. The filler used for this purpose must be smoothed so that the surface is perfectly even.
Before installing the vinyl panels, ensure the tiles are leveled, thoroughly cleaned, dried, and vacuumed. Plan carefully where to start laying the panels. Remember to leave a gap between the panels and the walls or other fixed elements – this is called an expansion gap, which allows the floor to expand and contract properly. Use a dedicated underlay for vinyl panels, such as one that is 1.4 mm thick.
It’s important not to install vinyl panels under kitchen cabinets or a kitchen island, as the weight could prevent proper floor movement. Just like with walls, maintain an expansion gap between the cabinet legs and the vinyl panels – and don’t install underlay under the furniture either.
Waterproof Vinyl Flooring IDÉAL and AQUA PROFI
We offer IDÉAL waterproof vinyl panels – safe for health, easy to clean and maintain, and resistant to deformation. They can be installed directly on ceramic tiles and come with an integrated underlay. Available in attractive designs that allow for creative interior arrangements. Let yourself be inspired and explore our selection. We also offer vinyl floors with a 4 or 5 mm thickness that do not include an integrated underlay – for these, underlay must be installed separately before laying the vinyl flooring.
Light Vinyl Panels for a Small Kitchen
Light-colored designs work best in a small kitchen as they visually enlarge the space. They are perfect for creating a Scandinavian, modern, or minimalist kitchen. Many designs imitate light wood with natural grain details and pair beautifully with white or light gray walls, wooden countertops, and colorful accents typical of the Scandi style. Off-white or beige-toned designs can help create a modern loft or minimalist interior. Restraint in decor, high-quality materials, and designer lighting – that’s the recipe for a stylish kitchen in line with current trends.
Cozy Rustic-Style Kitchen
Wood isn’t always the most practical choice for kitchens, which is why innovative solutions like vinyl panels are becoming popular for those who want the look of a wooden floor in the kitchen or hallway. The option to choose wood-like designs ensures a cozy atmosphere and allows you to create rustic or Provençal-style interiors with ease.